Royce is a name of English origin that has gained popularity in recent years, particularly as a boy's name. It is derived from the medieval English surname "Royce," which was originally an occupational name given to a seller or maker of wheels. The name is thought to have been derived from the Old French word "roue," meaning "wheel."
The name Royce has no specific meaning or symbolism beyond its occupational origin. However, it has been associated with luxury and elegance due to its use by the British automobile company Rolls-Royce, which was founded by Charles Rolls and Henry Royce in 1904.
The first recorded use of the name Royce as a given name is believed to have been in the United States in the late 19th century. It has since gained popularity as both a boy's and girl's name, although it remains more commonly used for boys.
One notable figure with the name Royce is American actor and musician Royce Gracie, who is known for his work in mixed martial arts and acting. He was born on December 14, 1966, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, but has lived most of his life in the United States.
Overall, Royce is a unique and distinctive name with an interesting occupational origin and a history of luxury and elegance associated with it through its use by Rolls-Royce. It may not have a specific meaning or symbolism beyond its origin, but it remains a popular choice for parents looking for a memorable name for their child.
Statistics on the Name Royce in the United States:
The name Royce has been consistently present in the United States for over a century, with its popularity varying over time. Between 1915 and 2023, there were a total of 2454 births registered with the name Royce.
In the early years, from 1915 to 1940, the number of babies named Royce remained relatively low, ranging from 6 to 32 births per year. However, starting in 1942, there was a significant increase in popularity, with 45 births that year and peaking at 74 births in 2017.
Throughout the 1940s and 1950s, the number of babies named Royce fluctuated between 36 and 59 births per year. The 1960s saw a decline in popularity, with fewer than 30 births each year. This trend continued into the 1970s, with only a handful of babies named Royce annually.
From the 1980s to the early 2000s, the name experienced another period of growth, with numbers ranging from 5 to 15 births per year. Since then, there has been a steady increase in popularity, reaching a recent high of 67 births in 2020 and 44 births in 2021.
Overall, while the popularity of the name Royce has ebbed and flowed over time, it has remained a consistent choice for parents in the United States. With its unique sound and historic presence, Royce continues to be an appealing option for baby names.